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School Function

What is the function of schooling and how does schooling reflect the stratification system? In this paper I will be using two sociological perspectives conflict theory and social exchange theory. Conflict Theory is based upon the view that the fundamental causes of crime are the social and economic forces operating within society. The criminal justice system and criminal law are thought to be operating on behalf of rich and powerful social elites, with resulting policies aimed at controlling the poor.
The criminal justice establishment aims at imposing standards of morality and good behavior created by the powerful on the whole of society. Focus is on separating the powerful from the “have-nots” who would steal from others and protecting themselves from physical attacks; in the process, the legal rights of poor folks might be ignored. The middle class are also co-opted; they side with the elites rather than the poor, thinking they might themselves rise to the top by supporting the status quo.
There are several social theories that emphasize social conflict and have roots in the ideas of Karl Marx (1818-1883), the great German theorist and political activist. The Marxist, conflict approach emphasizes a materialist interpretation of history, a dialectical method of analysis, a critical stance toward existing social arrangements, and a political program of revolution or, at least, reform. The materialist view of history starts from the premise that the most important determinant of social life is the work people are doing, especially work that results in provision of the basic necessities of i.e. life, food, clothing and shelter. Marx thought that the way the work is socially organized and the technology used in production will have a strong impact on every other aspect of society.
He maintained that everything of value in society results from human labor. Thus, Marx saw working men and women as engaged in making society, in creating the...